We spent a quiet night at home, as is our tradition. We always cook up something fun and fabulous and indulge a bit. This year was no different – we had gourmet burgers with all kinds of fun toppings, Old Bay Parsnip Fries (from my eBook), an almost-Caesar Kale Salad (coming next week!), a cheese tray (including this), some chocolates and of course, some fun beverages.

With all the partying and holiday madness behind us, I felt it was high time for a comforting and healthy stew to kick off the New Year on the right note.

This Quick Chickpea Stew with Bulgur and Za’atar is the perfect transition. It is hearty and satisfying, full of Vegan protein from the chickpeas, has a hefty helping of Kale and just enough bulgur to make it nice and thick.

Plus, it is only 6 Points Plus for 2 Heaping Cups. That is a huge serving and makes an excellent meal when paired with a salad or some other type of vegetable!

Za’atar is a middle eastern spice blend that usually has thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt. If you can’t find it locally, you can order it here. If you like hummus and/or middle eastern food, you NEED this in your pantry. Your hummus, baba, and falafel will thank you 100 times over.

Posts may include affiliate links. Please note that Everyday Maven receives a percentage of money from the sale of these linked items. These proceeds support the operating costs of this site. Thank you for helping me to support Everyday Maven!

Everyday Maven posts products that are personal recommendations and is not being directly compensated by any of these companies / brands. Unless explicitly stated, I am just sharing what I use, buy and like.

A wonderful easy recipe with that extra flavour! What especially appeals is that one probably has all the ingredients at home already and it can be a last minute meal choice! Discovered Za’atar less tha a decade ago: must admit I oft buy it from good spice merchants, but it is actually very easy to make oneself! And Happy New Year and all the best . . .

This is exactly what I’m craving right now, Alyssa! I adore za’atar and sprinkle it on eggs and yogurt almost daily. What a comforting stew you’ve made! It sounds like you had a wonderful New Year’s eve celebration. Happy 2013 to you!Hannah recently posted..Green Curry Paste